Manuscripts
G. Nelson Allen letters
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- Description
- These 12 letters, all written to Allen's daughter Emma Merrit, are handwritten copies of the original letters (location of originals is unknown). The majority of the letters are actually written by both G. Nelson Allen and Elizabeth Allen. In the letters they discuss their lives in Ohio and Wisconsin as well as their decision to go to Colorado to try their luck there. While on the journey to Colorado, G. Nelson and Elizabeth discuss the trail, its conditions, the weather and landscape, the other emigrants they pass, the loss of their dog Beppie, and the Native Americans with whom they interact, more specifically the Pawnee. The letters are written from Fort Des Moines, Cass County and Council Bluffs, Iowa, and Fort Kearny, Nebraska. In the letter dated 1887, Elizabeth Allen reminiscences about their trip across the plains. In one letter (1858), G. Nelson reminiscences about living on the Gila River, near Tucson, Arizona and Fort Yuma. Included are transcripts of the letters.
- Production date
- 1857-1887.
- Call number
- mssHM 74421-74432
